{"id":36286,"date":"2026-03-17T19:11:43","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:11:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/"},"modified":"2026-03-17T19:11:44","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:11:44","slug":"vormen-van-scheiden","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/","title":{"rendered":"Forms of divorce and separation"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-grid-toc_main gb-element-94926826\">\n<div class=\"s-section-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"s-sidebar-block-toc gb-element-bf14a539\">\n<p class=\"gb-text\">On this page<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/#What_forms_of_divorce_are_there\" >What forms of divorce are there?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/#Routes_consultation_mediation_joint_petition_or_legal_proceedings\" >Routes: consultation, mediation, joint petition or legal proceedings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/#Process_steps_in_divorce\" >Process steps in divorce<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/#Practical_examples\" >Practical examples<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-section-main s-stack-2xl gb-element-6c76d265\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-15683c21 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<p>In the Netherlands, there are several legal routes to terminate a marriage or cohabitation, depending on the legal form of the relationship and the mutual rapport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Divorce is the termination of a marriage through the court, whereby the legal ties are completely severed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Termination of a registered partnership is possible without a judge if there are no minor children and both partners consent.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legal separation means that partners remain formally married but live separately, with the dissolution of the community of property.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For cohabitants without a marriage or registered partnership, no formal divorce procedures apply, but agreements regarding the home and children are often necessary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A joint petition for divorce is the legal conclusion based on mutual agreements, recorded in a settlement agreement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\">In brief<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_forms_of_divorce_are_there\"><\/span>What forms of divorce are there?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Divorce through the court<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Those who are married can only divorce through the court. The <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce-lawyer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">divorce lawyer<\/a> files a petition stating that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.<br\/>In the case of a <strong>joint petition<\/strong>, the partners jointly draw up a comprehensive <strong>divorce settlement agreement<\/strong>. This contains all agreements regarding the home, assets, pension, alimony and, in the case of minor children, the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"12494\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">parenting plan<\/a>.<br\/>This agreement must be signed by both partners and filed by a lawyer at the court as a petition for divorce.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The judge assesses the petition and the attachments. The divorce is only final after the decree has been registered in the civil status records.<br\/>If partners cannot reach an agreement, it is advisable for each to engage their own lawyer to represent their interests and guide the process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Legal separation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In this form, spouses remain legally married but live separately. The community of property can be divided, but the marriage formally continues to exist.<br\/>This route is sometimes chosen for religious or financial reasons.<br\/>After three years, the marriage can still be dissolved.<br\/>Please note: <em>living permanently separate<\/em> can have different tax consequences than an official divorce.<br\/>Agreements regarding alimony and care can be recorded in a settlement agreement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Termination of registered partnership<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A registered partnership can be terminated without a judge if there are no minor children. The partners then sign a termination agreement at a lawyer&#8217;s or notary&#8217;s office.<br\/>If there are minor children, a petition to the court is mandatory.<br\/>In that case, largely the same rules apply as for a divorce.<br\/>Read more about <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"\/scheiden\/mediation\/\">mediation during divorce<\/a> if you wish to make agreements together. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Separating after cohabitation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live together and separate, you do not need to divorce formally.<br\/>However, it is important to make sound agreements regarding the home, assets, and any children.<br\/>If you have a cohabitation agreement, this often determines which agreements apply legally upon separation.<br\/>For parents who separate, cooperation remains essential.<br\/>A written agreement or parenting plan helps to maintain peace and clarity.<br\/>Also view how the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/assets\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"25131\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">division of assets<\/a> is legally arranged.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Routes_consultation_mediation_joint_petition_or_legal_proceedings\"><\/span>Routes: consultation, mediation, joint petition or legal proceedings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Collaborative divorce<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Parties make agreements together with legal guidance.<br\/>The lawyer records these agreements in a settlement agreement that is submitted to the court for approval.<br\/>This form closely resembles a <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"\/scheiden\/mediation\/\">mediation process<\/a>, but without a mediator; parties are guided directly by their lawyers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mediation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During <strong>mediation<\/strong>, an independent mediator guides the discussions between the partners.<br\/>The goal is to reach agreements together in a calm manner regarding finances, care, housing, and the future.<br\/>The agreements made are included in a settlement agreement and \u2013 if applicable \u2013 in a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"12494\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">parenting plan<\/a>.<br\/>When parties agree, a lawyer can file a <strong>joint petition for divorce<\/strong> with the court on behalf of both.<br\/>The judge usually ratifies the agreements in writing and without a hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Joint petition for divorce<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A <strong>joint petition<\/strong> is the most frequently chosen route when parties agree on all arrangements.<br\/>The lawyer files one petition with the court on behalf of both partners, together with the settlement agreement and, if applicable, the parenting plan.<br\/>The court assesses the documents and grants the divorce without a hearing.<br\/>This route can result from mediation, but also from consultation between lawyers.<br\/>It is the fastest and least burdensome procedure when there is full agreement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Legal proceedings in case of disagreement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If consultation is unsuccessful, one partner can file a <strong>unilateral petition<\/strong>.<br\/>The other party can file a defense, after which the court decides on <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/alimony\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">alimony<\/a>, care arrangements, and the division of assets.<br\/>This route provides clarity but is more intensive and time-consuming.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Process_steps_in_divorce\"><\/span>Process steps in divorce<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Orientation and choice of route<\/strong><br\/>Discuss with your lawyer whether mediation or consultation is possible. This determines whether you can file a joint petition together or whether one of you starts the legal proceedings unilaterally. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drafting documents<\/strong><br\/>The lawyer drafts the settlement agreement and \u2013 if applicable \u2013 the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/parenting-plan\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"12494\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">parenting plan<\/a>. This contains all agreements regarding assets, care, housing, and alimony.<br\/>Parents are advised to regularly discuss whether agreements still suit the children. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Filing the petition<\/strong><br\/>Your lawyer files the (joint or unilateral) petition with the court.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Court proceedings<\/strong><br\/>In the case of a <strong>joint petition<\/strong>, the process usually takes place in writing.<br\/>In the case of a unilateral petition, the court may schedule a hearing in which both parties explain their positions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ruling and registration<\/strong><br\/>After the decree, the lawyer registers the divorce in the civil status records.<br\/>Only then are the legal ties between the partners severed and the divorce is final.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_examples\"><\/span>Practical examples<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Joint petition with mediation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A couple with two young children wanted to separate in good consultation. During mediation, agreements were made regarding care, housing, and alimony. The children were actively involved in the parenting plan so that their wishes could be taken into account.<br\/>The lawyer filed one joint petition, which was ratified by the court without a hearing.<br\/>The calm approach prevented unnecessary tension and provided stability for the family.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Unilateral petition due to lack of consultation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the partners wanted to sell the house, the other did not. Because consultation was no longer possible, the lawyer filed a unilateral petition for divorce.<br\/>The judge ultimately decided on the division of the house and the alimony.<br\/>This example shows how legal proceedings can bring clarity when consultation fails. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Termination of registered partnership without a judge<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Two partners without minor children terminated their registered partnership with a termination agreement at their lawyer&#8217;s office.<br\/>The agreements regarding assets and the home were finalized within a few weeks.<br\/>This route is often suitable in cases of harmonious consultation and a clear financial situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Divorce for entrepreneurs and Director-Major Shareholders (DGA)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An entrepreneur with their own private limited company (BV) wanted to divorce after the relationship had irretrievably broken down. The question was how the shares and the company value should be divided.<br\/>Under the guidance of our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce-lawyer\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"35153\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">divorce lawyers<\/a>, an independent business valuation was performed. This allowed the parties to make agreements regarding buyouts, alimony, and pensions without endangering the company.<br\/>This approach demonstrates the importance of both legal and financial insight for entrepreneurs.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>International divorce process<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Dutch-German couple lived partly in the Netherlands and partly in Germany. The question was which court had jurisdiction and which law applied.<br\/>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/international\/lawyer\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"32527\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">international family law lawyers<\/a> assessed the situation based on the <strong>Brussels II-ter Regulation<\/strong>.<br\/>Through timely coordination, the proceedings could be conducted in the Netherlands, providing clarity on alimony and child arrangements. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-479128b1 sim-section\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d2156fab sim-section__inner-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c3c6957d\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9ac3bf72 gb-headline-text\">Are you unsure which form of divorce is suitable for your situation?<br>Schedule an appointment with us.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2897bd62\">\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-0c012c4c gb-button-text sim-btn-action sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Contact Us<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-advocaten-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\" id=\"advocaten\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_Attorneys_at_Law\"><\/span>Our Attorneys at Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At Simmelink Lawyers, you work with lawyers specialized in family law, international family law, and inheritance law. We work intensively together on solutions that are legally sound and do personal justice to your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-quotes-block gb-element-b0365a51 testimonial-block\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"s-quote-card-icon gb-media-5cab658b testimonial-icon\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/quote.svg\" title=\"quote\">\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-text testimonial-text\"><em><em>Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-author testimonial-author\">Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be249d49 s-margin-vert-xl s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bfdf1120 gb-headline-text gbp-section__headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1e85dbd5 gb-accordion\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1310856 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-19f7b745 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-19f7b745\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What is the difference between divorce and legal separation?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-52e77243\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52e77243\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b299caa3 gb-headline-text\">In a divorce, the marriage is completely terminated; in a legal separation, the marriage formally continues to exist. This is general information, not individual legal advice.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2712f11d gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-17f3fa07 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-17f3fa07\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What does a joint petition entail?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-061dc4a6\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-061dc4a6\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-98660516 gb-headline-text\">A joint petition is a mutual petition for divorce. The lawyer files one petition on behalf of both partners, including the settlement agreement and, if applicable, the parenting plan. The judge usually ratifies the agreements in writing.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-88866d7b gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1365ae94 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1365ae94\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>When is mediation suitable?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-433b3ebd\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-433b3ebd\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d0db8993 gb-headline-text\">In many cases, mediation is a calm way to reach agreements. It works well if both partners are willing to consult together about the future. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7afb061f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-f5653bff gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-f5653bff\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What does a divorce cost on average?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-e59cd61c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e59cd61c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-e246ca56 gb-headline-text\">That depends on the chosen route and the complexity of the agreements. Schedule an appointment with us to discuss your situation without obligation. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/RaadvRechtspraak.svg\" alt=\"\" title=\"RaadvJustice\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-07670684\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"105\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-07670684\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png\" alt=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" title=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png 340w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo-300x93.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page In the Netherlands, there are several legal routes to terminate a marriage or cohabitation, depending on the legal form of the relationship and the mutual rapport. In brief What forms of divorce are there? Divorce through the court Those who are married can only divorce through the court. The divorce lawyer files &#8230; <a title=\"Forms of divorce and separation\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/divorce\/vormen-van-scheiden\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Forms of divorce and separation\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":24950,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-36286","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","5":"infinite-scroll-item"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36286","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36286"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36286\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36287,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36286\/revisions\/36287"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24950"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36286"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}